"Then we will come up with plans," Jack assures him. "Contingencies, things to prepare for the worst situation, just in case. Like we do for the wolf." They ought to make some of those anyhow, if just to prevent whatever happened last time.

He gives Serph a last little squeeze, then steps back, sliding a hand down his arm to take Serph's hand instead. "Come sit with me. I want to hear more about why you feel this is inevitable. It sounds a little confusing to me."